Published: Friday 20 November 2020
Leighton House has successfully raised over £26,000 to fund its first permanent contemporary artwork, Oneness by Iranian artist Shahrzad Ghaffari, to adorn the walls of the new helical staircase in the modern wing.
Facilitated through the Art Fund’s Art Happens crowdfunding platform, Leighton House became the quickest museum in the history of the platform to hit its fundraising target of £17,300, in under two weeks. Due to the incredible show of support, the extra funds raised will be used to help design and build a bespoke scaffolding system for Ghaffari to access the 11-metre high staircase wall to complete her hand-painted mural.
Oneness will be the final piece of the Museum’s capital project aimed at providing much-needed additional visitor and learning facilities, exhibition spaces and improved accessibility.
Cllr Emma Will, Lead Member for Culture said:
“Covid-19 has taken its toll on our cultural sector but the generosity and support shown during this fundraising mission demonstrates that people still have a real appetite for culture.
“Although nothing can replace the real experience, venues have been really creative with their online offers. We know that art brings great cultural and economic benefits to our communities and this project will give us new art to look forward to, when we can visit Leighton House again in person and when the capital works are complete.”
Those who donated to this cause will receive a variety of exclusive rewards ranging from tote bags to ceramic plates inspired by the contemporary artwork and the traditional designs in Leighton House.
This programme of work is scheduled to be completed and debut in the Autumn of 2021. Learn more about Leighton House and get involved in their online activities.